“The purpose of art is not the release of a momentary ejection of adrenaline but rather the gradual, lifelong construction of a state of wonder and serenity.”

“I believe that the justification of art is the internal combustion it ignites in the hearts of men and not its shallow, externalized, public manifestations. The purpose of art is not the release of a momentary ejection of adrenaline but is, rather, the gradual, lifelong construction of a state of wonder and serenity.”

“The logic of the suggestion fitted gradually into Abe’s pitch – he grew rather enthusiastic about being cared for, or rather about prolonging his state of irresponsibility.”

“The object isn't to make art, it's to be in that wonderful state which makes art inevitable.”

“...most art mistakes itself for the universal when it is momentary”

“Then I though of reading -- the nice and subtle happiness of reading ... this joy not dulled by age, this polite and unpunishable vice, this selfish, serene, lifelong intoxication.”